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Science News for November 29, 2017


Traces of life on nearest exoplanets may be hidden in equatorial trap

Researchers found that equatorial regions on planets like Proxima b and TRAPPIST-1d might trap ozone, hiding signs of life from telescopic observations. This discovery highlights the challenges in detecting life beyond Earth, requiring a more nuanced strategy for searching for life.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateNov 29, 2017

Teaching life a new trick: Bacteria make boron-carbon bonds

Researchers at Caltech have created bacteria that can produce chemical compounds with boron-carbon bonds, a breakthrough in synthetic biology. The findings could lead to more economical and environmentally friendly ways to manufacture pharmaceuticals and other products.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

Toward safer, longer-lasting batteries for electronics and vehicles

Solid-state batteries have the potential to replace flammable liquid electrolytes with solids, improving safety and energy density. Industry leaders like Toyota, Apple, and Bosch are investing in this technology, but high costs remain a major obstacle to widespread commercialization.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 29, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

HADES creates alternate reality to mislead hackers

The HADES system creates a simulated environment that alters certain data points, leading hackers to doubt the authenticity of the information. This allows researchers to gather actionable intelligence and detect malware more effectively.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateNov 29, 2017

How a biophysical simulation method might accelerate drug target discovery

Researchers developed a computational simulation method to predict protein sequence changes for efficient membrane insertion, correlating improved insertion efficiency with increased protein yield. The new approach offers a way forward for membrane protein researchers struggling to express their proteins.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 29, 2017

€1.9 million project aims to open the 'black box' of marine fungi

A €1.9 million research project will explore the complex roles played by marine planktonic fungi, known as mycoplankton, in the cycling of carbon in the sea. The MYCO-CARB project will use innovative approaches to assess active mycoplankton diversity and abundance across various ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·DateNov 29, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Urgent need to address long-term health effects of extreme weather

Research highlights the need to understand long-term health effects of extreme weather, including chronic psychological impacts and vulnerability in local infrastructure. Coordinated programs are essential for recovery and rebuilding, with healthcare facilities needing to ensure they can withstand disruptions.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateNov 29, 2017

Eruption clues: UNH researchers create snapshot of volcano plumbing

Researchers at UNH used scientific sleuthing to better understand magma movement in Mount Etna, finding that ancient and present-day magma sources are similar. The study also revealed that crystals formed beneath the volcano were virtually chemically identical to erupted lavas, suggesting short crystal storage times.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·DateNov 29, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

HKUST researchers reveal new insights into the control of cellular scaffold

A research team led by Prof. Robert Qi uncovered a previously overlooked mechanism controlling the organization of microtubule cytoskeletons. They found that PolD1 physically associates with γTuRCs, blocking microtubule nucleation and regulating various cellular activities such as Golgi assembly and cell polarization.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2017

Insufficient evidence to guide recommendations on vitamin D in pregnancy

Research analyzed 43 trials involving 8,406 women and found that vitamin D supplementation increased birth weight and reduced small baby risk, but results were inconsistent and limited by study quality. Further large-scale trials are needed to determine the effectiveness of prenatal vitamin D supplementation.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 29, 2017

A transistor of graphene nanoribbons

Researchers have successfully grown graphene nanoribbons with a regular armchair edge, exhibiting a precisely defined energy gap. This enabled the integration of these structures into nanotransistors, overcoming previous challenges related to dielectric layers and ribbon alignment.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2017

More than half of US children will have obesity as adults if current trends continue

According to a new study, more than half of US children will have obesity as adults if current trends in child obesity continue. The study found that excess weight in childhood is predictive of adult obesity and that only children at a healthy weight have less than a 50% chance of having obesity as adults.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 29, 2017

NIFA funds food safety and nutrition to promote safe food supply

NIFA's Agriculture and Food Research Initiative program supports research, education, and extension projects that promote a safe, nutritious food supply. The funding enables scientists to investigate innovative approaches to detect and control contaminants in food, contributing to the production of high-quality, nourishing food.

SourceNational Institute of Food and Agriculture·DateNov 29, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Scientists demonstrate one of largest quantum simulators

Physicists at MIT and Harvard University have developed a new technique to manipulate quantum bits by trapping and arranging individual atoms. This breakthrough enables the simulation of complex systems like materials and optimization problems, such as the traveling salesman problem, exponentially faster than classical computers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

New method maps chemicals in the skin

A new chemical imaging method allows for precise measurement of substances in human skin, providing opportunities to develop pharmaceuticals and cosmetics while minimizing animal experiments. The technology enables researchers to design products with controlled skin absorption and determine safe limits for harmful levels of substances.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalContact Dermatitis·DateNov 29, 2017

Watching a quantum material lose its stripes

Researchers investigate electronic charges that form stripe patterns in lanthanum nickelate, discovering unexpected dynamics when using terahertz laser pulses to disrupt microscopic order. The study provides fundamental insights into the interactions between electrons and crystal lattice vibrations.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2017

Can a rude waiter make your food less tasty?

Research by Jaehoon Lee suggests that lower class individuals are more likely to assume food will be less delicious due to poor service, while higher class people do not typically make this assumption. This holistic view of life creates a 'carryover effect', leading to negative judgments about other aspects of the consumer experience.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateNov 29, 2017
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sorry, Grumpy Cat -- Study finds dogs are brainier than cats

A new study by Vanderbilt University researchers found that dogs have significantly more cortical neurons than cats, indicating a higher level of intelligence. Dogs possess about 530 million neurons, while cats have around 250 million, suggesting that dogs are brainier than cats.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalFrontiers in Neuroanatomy·DateNov 29, 2017

When brands tempt us to lie, cheat and steal

A study published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology found that consumers are more likely to engage in dishonest behavior, such as shoplifting or piracy, if they perceive a company as harming the environment or people. This effect occurs even when consumers have not personally had a bad experience with the company.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateNov 29, 2017
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Getting a better handle on methane emissions from livestock

A new approach has been developed to measure methane emissions from livestock, highlighting the need for more accurate estimates. The study reveals that current data may be outdated and do not fully consider factors such as feed intake and manure storage, leading to large uncertainties in methane emission figures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 29, 2017

Urban American-Indian, Alaskan natives may have lower survival following invasive cancer

The study found that urban American-Indian and Alaskan Native individuals had a higher risk of mortality from prostate and breast cancer, with AIANs facing an 87% increased risk for prostate cancer-specific mortality. The community's unique history of social and environmental injustices may be contributing to these disparities.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 29, 2017

Innovative microscope poised to propel optogenetics studies

A new microscope, Firefly, has been developed to study brain activity and neurological disorders. With a 6-millimeter-diameter field of view, the microscope can image neural circuits containing hundreds of cells, allowing for the observation of electrical pulses traveling between neurons.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateNov 29, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Eye contact with your baby helps synchronize your brainwaves

Infants' brainwaves synchronize with adults when they make direct eye contact, allowing for more effective communication and potentially enhancing learning. This synchronization also enables infants to communicate more effectively, making vocalizations when the adult makes direct eye contact.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Empowering workers can cause uncertainty and resentment

Research by the University of Exeter Business School found that empowering workers can have a negative impact on their day-to-day performance, especially for routine and structured tasks. However, it can be effective when used for creative tasks, motivating employees to work harder and be more proactive.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Organizational Behavior·DateNov 29, 2017

Male circumcision and antiviral drugs appear to sharply reduce HIV infection rate

A US-funded global effort to curb HIV infection in high-risk populations appears to be working, with a 42% decline in new HIV infections. Male circumcision was shown to have a direct risk-lowering effect, while antiretroviral therapy increased the likelihood of viral suppression.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 29, 2017

How does chemotherapy among men affect the health of subsequent generations?

Research reveals that cancer survivors experience difficulty conceiving and increased embryo loss, while their children's health remains unaffected. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring across multiple generations to understand the long-term effects of chemotherapy.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalGynécologie Obstétrique & Fertilité·DateNov 29, 2017

Not all Republicans are climate change doubters

A recent study reveals substantial differences in climate change views between Republican elites and their party members, with only a quarter of Republicans believing human-caused climate change. The research also finds that Republican support for climate policies varies by state, with Southern Florida showing strong backing for regula...

SourceSpringer·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 29, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Novel Omics tool begins new era for biology and personalized medicine

Researchers have developed a novel omics tool to explore the interaction between genetics, environment, and disease. By integrating large datasets from the BXD mouse population, scientists can identify gene-phenotype associations and make personalized treatment predictions.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalCell Systems·DateNov 29, 2017

UNIST professor honored as ACM Distinguished Member

Professor Sam H. Noh recognized by ACM for significant accomplishments in system software and data storage technology. He is the only Korean among the 2017 cohort of distinguished members, who have made substantial impact on the computing industry.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateNov 29, 2017

Cranberry growers tart on phosphorus

Researchers developed a method to trap phosphorus in holding ponds, reducing its release into waterways. Aluminum sulfate was found to be an effective and cost-friendly solution, with a 78-93% reduction in phosphorus levels.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateNov 29, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Bringing chemistry HOME with $1.1 million Sloan Foundation grant

A two-year project, called HOMEChem, aims to comprehensively understand the chemistry of indoor environments by studying various aspects of air, surfaces and microbes in a recreated home setting. Researchers will analyze data collected using new mass spectrometry-based instrumentation.

SourceColorado State University·DateNov 29, 2017

First finding of China's DAMPE may shed light on dark matter research

The DAMPE mission has published its first scientific results, presenting precise measurements of cosmic ray electron flux and a spectral break at ~0.9 TeV. This data may help clarify the connection between the positron anomaly and particle dark matter annihilation or decay.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

The ultimate defense against hackers may be just a few atoms thick

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have introduced a new class of unclonable cybersecurity primitives made from low-cost nanomaterials with high structural randomness. These primitives can be used to securely encrypt and authenticate computer hardware and data physically, rather than through programming.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 29, 2017

Mass of warm rock rising beneath New England, Rutgers study suggests

A Rutgers-led study has detected a massive upwelling of warm rock beneath central Vermont and western New Hampshire, contradicting established notions of how continents behave. The phenomenon, revealed through seismic data, is thought to be driven by the movement of tectonic plates.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGeology·DateNov 29, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Trial suggests way to personalize heart health in diabetes

A recent study found a link between genetic variants and lower GLP-1 levels, which may predict increased cardiovascular mortality risks in type 2 diabetes patients. The research could lead to personalized patient care by testing genetic risk markers and tailoring treatments accordingly.

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalDiabetes Care·DateNov 29, 2017

Polar bear blogs reveal dangerous gap between climate-change facts and opinions

A new study by NIOO-KNAW reveals a dangerous gap between scientific facts on climate change and polar bear blogs, which often rely on misinformation. The study found that 45 'denier blogs' failed to overlap with peer-reviewed evidence, while 45 science-based blogs matched the evidence in scientific papers.

SourceNetherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)·JournalBioScience·DateNov 29, 2017

New synthethic protocol to form 3-D porous organic network

A new synthetic protocol has been developed to form 3D porous organic networks via solid-state explosion of organic single crystals. This method offers several advantages over existing techniques, including the absence of solvents and catalysts, resulting in highly pure products.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2017

To improve dipstick diagnostic and environmental tests, just add tape

Researchers have developed a low-cost sensor using adhesive tape to analyze both liquid and solid samples, improving the accuracy of paper-based sensors. The device detects heavy metal ions in water without displacing indicator ink, making it reliable for environmental testing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 29, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

UBC Okanagan researchers discover neurotoxin in Lake Winnipeg

Researchers found BMAA, a toxin linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS, in areas of Lake Winnipeg bloom impacted by pollution and farming. Cyanobacterial blooms are not isolated to Lake Winnipeg and pose public health risks.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalNeurotoxicity Research·DateNov 29, 2017

With 'material robotics,' intelligent products won't even look like robots

Researchers in material robotics envision a future where technology seamlessly integrates into daily life, enabling intelligent products that adapt to our needs. By merging materials science and robotics, the goal is to create robots with 'brains' in their bodies, making them ubiquitous and invisible.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Robotics·DateNov 29, 2017

Paired mutations: a new approach to discovering the shape of proteins

Researchers developed a new approach to identify protein structure from sole sequence information by analyzing paired mutations across thousands of protein family members. This method identified sequence covariations that uncover the protein's macrostructure and its fundamental structural and functional units.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Time between world-changing volcanic super-eruptions less than previously thought

A team from the University of Bristol analyzed geological records to find that volcanic super-eruptions occur much more frequently than previously estimated, with a new average time between events of around 17 thousand years. This re-evaluation raises concerns about the potential impact on global weather patterns and human civilization.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateNov 29, 2017

Penn researchers: An injectable gel that helps heart muscle regenerate after heart attack

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed an injectable gel that slowly releases microRNAs to stimulate heart muscle regeneration. The gel's unique properties allow it to target specific signaling pathways related to cell proliferation, resulting in improved recovery rates and potentially life-prolonging effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateNov 29, 2017

A peek into the future of connected cars

The UNIST team 'JALIS' won the first place prize for their advanced driver-assistance system, which monitors traffic and advises drivers on the least-congested routes. The system will become a standard in future connected cars, offering in-car assistance with local traffic updates and engine diagnostics.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateNov 29, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

NIH study of WWII evacuees suggests mental illness may be passed to offspring

A recent NIH study found that the children of female WWII evacuees were more likely to experience mental health disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder. The research suggests that a mother's childhood traumatic exposure may have long-lasting health consequences for her daughters.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 29, 2017

Science community considers approaches to climate disinformation

Climate scientists must engage in public debate to counter misinformation on Internet blogs, which can be more effective than traditional news sources. Scientists need to use social media effectively to turn the tide in the battle for public opinion and close the consensus gap on climate change.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateNov 29, 2017

Study finds no evidence that gadolinium causes neurologic harm

A new study presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found no link between gadolinium accumulation in the brain and cognitive decline. The study involved 4,261 participants who received MRI scans with gadolinium-based contrast agents, but showed no significant predictor of cognitive decline or dementia.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2017

CT shows enlarged aortas in former pro football players

A study found that former NFL players have significantly larger ascending aortic diameters than non-players, with almost 30% having an aorta wider than 4cm. This could be due to a remodeling process caused by repeated strenuous exercise, increasing their risk of heart disease.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2017
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Bones show prehistoric women's intensive manual labor during advent of agriculture

A recent study reveals prehistoric women performed intensive manual labor for thousands of years, surpassing modern female athletes. This finding highlights the crucial role of women's labor in agriculture's development and underscores the importance of using female comparative data to interpret past behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2017

Parkfield segment of San Andreas fault may host occasional large earthquakes

Researchers suggest that the Parkfield segment of the San Andreas Fault must host occasional large earthquakes to balance its seismic moment deficit. The study found that the probability of an earthquake magnitude 6 or more is around 43% over 30 years and 96% over 200 years.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateNov 29, 2017

Balancing dual identities: Hormone stabilizes blood volume

Researchers discovered vasopressin's role in stimulating red blood cell production, with implications for treating anemia after traumatic injuries or chemotherapy. The hormone's effectiveness was demonstrated in mouse models and clinical data from patients with central diabetes insipidus.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateNov 29, 2017

HPV vaccine is effective, safe 10 years after it's given

A decade-long study on hundreds of HPV vaccine recipients found the vaccine to be safe and effective in preventing the most virulent strains of the virus. The quadrivalent vaccine was virtually 100% effective in preventing disease in young individuals.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 29, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

'Magnetoelectric' material shows promise as memory for electronics

Researchers have developed a high-quality magnetoelectric material that can store information using both electric and magnetic fields. The material enables the creation of low-power devices with multifunctional capabilities, paving the way for more efficient electronics.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2017

Jena Experiment: Loss of species destroys ecosystems

The Jena Experiment found that biodiversity influences almost half the processes in an ecosystem, while intensive grassland management does not result in higher yields. High-diversity meadows had higher productivity and better carbon storage than low-diversity meadows.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBasic and Applied Ecology·DateNov 29, 2017

Biologists taught infusoria to fight poisons

Biologists found a new substance, isocitric acid, with anti-oxidant properties that increased the survival rate of infusoria by 25-31 times compared to untreated cells. The compound also surpassed the effects of ascorbic acid, offering a promising solution for protecting living organisms from various toxic compounds.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalPreparative Biochemistry & Biotechnology·DateNov 29, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Software optimizes train circulation control in real time

The Meta Planning Engine system detects changes in demand and uses multiple algorithms to find the best solution for traffic management. It provides flexibility and adaptability, allowing the software to choose the optimal algorithm for each situation.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·DateNov 29, 2017

Debate over doubt

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researcher Matto Mildenberger finds substantial differences in Republican and Democratic climate change views across different states and congressional districts. The research reveals varied opinions among Republicans on issues like climate policies, renewable energy, and carbon regulations, despite part...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 29, 2017

Soccer success is all about skill

A new study led by Professor Robbie Wilson found that a player's skill is the most important factor in soccer success. Higher skill allows players to have a greater impact on the game.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·DateNov 29, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Nature's blueprint

Scientists at the University of Konstanz have created a more durable cement based on the nanostructure of sea urchin spines, which is significantly more resistant to fractures. The new material's elastic properties are comparable to those of mussel shells and reach values of up to 200 megapascals.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2017

Preventing psoriasis with vanillin

Researchers found that vanillin reduced psoriatic symptoms and decreased IL-17 and IL-23 protein levels in mice with induced skin inflammation. Daily doses of vanillin above 50mg/kg body weight showed significant effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateNov 29, 2017

New interpretation of the Red Queen's Hypothesis: It's about expansion

Researchers propose new theory reconciling taxon senescence with the Red Queen's Hypothesis, suggesting expansion is crucial for species success and extinction. The Hat Pattern, a phenomenon where species expand before contracting, is reinterpreted as evidence of this expansion-driven approach to survival.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

How does microbial degradation of plastics work in the ocean?

A €2 million European Research Council grant has been awarded to NIOZ scientist Helge Niemann to investigate microbial breakdown of plastics in the ocean. Microbes may utilize plastics as carbon substrates, but key factors controlling degradation are largely unknown.

SourceNIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research·DateNov 29, 2017

Three UNIST researchers named world's most highly cited researchers

Three UNIST researchers, Rodney S. Ruoff, Jaephil Cho, and Jin Young Kim, have been named Highly Cited Researchers in materials science and energy fields. They have made significant contributions to their respective fields, with Professor Cho leading expert on secondary batteries and Professor Kim a leading expert in organic solar cells.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateNov 29, 2017
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Modifying therapeutic DNA aptamers to keep them in the bloodstream longer

Researchers designed new therapeutic DNA aptamers with diverse side chains to enhance interaction with targets. The study found that the hydrophobicity of side chains affects clearance from the bloodstream, providing a guide for designing better aptamers.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateNov 29, 2017

Scientists make transparent materials absorb light

Researchers from Russia, Sweden, and the US demonstrate a highly unusual optical effect by creating a transparent material that appears to absorb light. The material, made of a thin layer of a transparent dielectric, accumulates light energy through mathematical properties of the scattering matrix, making it appear perfectly absorbing.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptica·DateNov 29, 2017

Broader gun restrictions lead to fewer intimate partner homicides

A groundbreaking national study by Michigan State University researchers found that state laws restricting gun ownership among domestic abusers and others with violent histories significantly reduce intimate partner homicides. Laws covering dating partners, emergency restraining orders, permit-to-purchase requirements, and firearms rel...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 29, 2017

Professor Rodney S. Ruoff wins prestigious James C. McGroddy Prize

Rodney S. Ruoff, a renowned researcher at UNIST, has been awarded the James C. McGroddy Prize for his groundbreaking work on scalable synthesis and applications of graphene and its derivatives. With over 141,000 citations, Ruoff is considered one of the most prolific researchers in the field.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateNov 29, 2017
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Why are there no sea snakes in the Atlantic?

The lack of sea snakes in the Atlantic Ocean is attributed to geographical barriers such as the Isthmus of Panama blocking access to the Caribbean. Additionally, cold water temperatures and freshwater scarcity in the Eastern Hemisphere hinder their survival.

SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·DateNov 29, 2017

Poverty, ethics and discrimination: How culture plays into cognitive research

A new paper calls for cognitive researchers to engage with cultural sociology to better understand the impact of culture on poverty, ethics, and discrimination. The authors examine three prominent cognitive research models, highlighting their limitations and suggesting ways to advance research by incorporating cultural references.

SourceCIFAR·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateNov 29, 2017

Is underground transit worse for your health?

Researchers found elevated levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and transition metals, including hexavalent chromium, on the Red Line. This led to a ten-fold increase in cancer risk compared to government safety thresholds.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalAerosol and Air Quality Research·DateNov 29, 2017

A model explains effects like the formation of clouds from the sea

A new model developed by Alfonso Gañán explains the origin of various phenomena, including cloud formation, wine aroma, and tire smoke. The model predicts the critical size of gas bubbles that determine the release of tiny droplets, which can generate clouds or spread flavors in the air.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 29, 2017

Hip steroid injections associated with bone changes

A new study presented at the Radiological Society of North America meeting found that hip steroid injections are associated with a higher incidence of bone death and collapse compared to control groups. The research showed that 22-24% of patients who received hip injections developed osteonecrosis, while 15-17% experienced bone collapse.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Fast flowing heat in graphene heterostructures

Scientists have successfully observed and followed real-time heat transport in van der Waals stacks, where graphene is encapsulated by hexagonal BN. The heat actually flows to the surrounding hBN sheets on an ultrafast timescale of picoseconds, dominating competing heat transfer processes.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 29, 2017

A step forward for quantum computing

A team of physicists from Harvard University has developed a special type of quantum computer, known as a quantum simulator, which is programmed by capturing super-cooled rubidium atoms with lasers. The system could shed new light on material properties and complex optimization problems.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

Wound healing or regeneration -- the environment decides?

Researchers have found that comb jellyfish can adjust their regeneration mechanisms based on environmental nutrients. In nutrient-rich environments, the larvae can fully regenerate, while in areas with fewer nutrients, they survive but cannot fully heal.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 29, 2017
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Theory of the evolution of sexes tested with algae

A University of Adelaide researcher tested a theory on the evolution of sexes in algae, finding that the classic Disruptive Selection Theory is supported. The study used data from various species of green algae and found that the ratio of larger gametes to smaller ones must be greater than three for males and females to evolve stably.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateNov 29, 2017

Low vitamin D levels at birth linked to higher autism risk

A recent study of 27,940 Chinese newborns found that low vitamin D levels at birth were associated with a higher risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) at age 3. The risk was significantly increased in each lower quartile of vitamin D level compared to the highest quartile.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateNov 29, 2017

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Rise of ampicillin resistance began years before human use -- likely triggered by overuse of penicillins in agriculture in the 1950s

Bacteria resistant to ampicillin emerged several years before its widespread use in humans, according to a new study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Low doses of penicillin added to animal feed in the 1950s and 60s may have encouraged antibiotic-resistant bacteria to evolve and spread.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 29, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Home-based activity program helps older veterans with Dementia maintain function

A home-based activity program called Tailored Activity Program (TAP) was found to significantly reduce dementia-related behaviors in veterans, as well as decrease caregiver distress. After four months, nearly 70% of TAP group participants eliminated or reduced their behavioral symptoms compared to 46% in the control group.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateNov 29, 2017

Employee-job personality match linked with higher income

A recent study published in Psychological Science found that employees whose personality traits closely match their job requirements tend to earn more than those who don't. The researchers used response surface analysis to create a model that identified the relationship between personality traits, job demands, and income.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateNov 29, 2017

Fighting the flu, year after year

Researchers highlight the challenges of preparing seasonal influenza vaccines in eggs, citing reduced effectiveness rates of 40-60 percent. They also emphasize the need for targeted research on manufacturing strategies and vaccine antigens to improve vaccine efficacy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 29, 2017

Minimally invasive treatment provides relief from back pain

A new image-guided pulsed radiofrequency treatment has shown extraordinary results in relieving low back pain and sciatica. The procedure involves inserting a probe to deliver energy to the affected area, resolving herniation without thermal damage, and patients were largely pain-free within a day.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 29, 2017

Antibiotic resistance: An unexpected chronology

Researchers found that antibiotic-resistant bacteria evolved and spread decades before the widespread use of ampicillin. The study suggests that low doses of penicillin fed to livestock may have triggered this evolution.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 29, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Lifespan prolonged by inhibiting common enzyme

A UCL-led study found that inhibiting RNA polymerase III, a common enzyme in all animals, extends the lifespans of yeast cells and animals by an average of 10%. This discovery may lead to targeted anti-aging therapies, similar to the effects of rapamycin.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·DateNov 29, 2017

Prehistoric women had stronger arms than today's elite rowing crews

A new study reveals prehistoric women had up to 30% stronger arm bones than modern rowers due to activities like grinding grain and performing manual labor. The research suggests that the varied work of early agricultural women played a crucial role in shaping their physical strength.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2017

Columbia receives grant to study impact of expanded global gag rule on women's health

The Heilbrunn Department at Columbia University is conducting a study to measure the impact of the expanded Mexico City Policy on women's health and wellbeing in Kenya and Nepal. The research aims to assess the current policy's effects on access to life-saving services such as abortion, contraception, and HIV testing and treatment.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateNov 29, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Adobe funds GMU research on video streaming on smartphones

Researchers at George Mason University are developing new techniques for photo editing using machine-learning algorithms, allowing for easier material changes. They are also working to improve streaming video quality on mobile phones by utilizing the features of HTTP/2.

SourceGeorge Mason University·DateNov 29, 2017

Robust Bain distortion in the premartensite phase of a platinum-substituted Ni2MnGa

Scientists at Max Planck Institute discovered robust Bain distortion in premartensite phase of Pt-substituted Ni2MnGa, which transforms to martensite with additional Bain distortion on further cooling. This phenomenon enhances applicability as magnetic actuators and refrigeration technology due to lower hysteresis.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 29, 2017